How the Summer Heat Harms Your Health

How the Summer Heat Harms Your Health

Posted By Georgia Accident Rehab Centers || 3-Sep-2014

Every year the United States experiences heat waves in many states across
the country. Summer heat is welcome to people on vacation but it can also
be dangerous. Extreme heat results in a number of health problems, some
of them serious. Be prepared for the summer heat – learn about the
dangers of the heat and take these steps to prevent heat-related illness
this year.

Why Does the Heat Cause Health Problems?

It’s not usually a problem for your body to deal with the heat. You
keep a normal temperature of around 37 degrees C and you maintain this
temperature through sweating. But when there is extreme heat to deal with,
the sweat cannot evaporate as the air temperature is hotter than your
body temperature. This starts an overheating process and you suffer various
health problems as a result.

List of Heat-Related Illnesses

Be aware of the following symptoms, which show that you may be suffering
from a heat-related illness. Heat health conditions can be serious –
if in doubt, consult a medic as soon as possible.

Heat stroke – This is the most serious consequence of the heat. Heat
stroke happens when your body temperature reaches a dangerous high –
often up to 41 degrees C. Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, rapid
heartbeat, shallow breathing, hot, flushed and dry skin, palpitations,
severe headache, and loss of consciousness. Seek emergency medical help
if someone is suffering from heatstroke.

Heat exhaustion – The symptoms of heat exhaustion include pale and
clammy skin, excess sweating, intense thirst, nausea, headache, and vomiting.
If you are suffering from heat exhaustion then move to a cooler location,
and cool the body by applying cold compresses to the skin.

Heat cramps – If you have been exercising in the heat then you can
suffer painful muscle cramps. Take it easy – massage the limbs if
you suffer from heat cramps and try not to exercise during the hottest
part of the day.

Preventing Summer Heat Problems

Prevention is better than cure – you will be much healthier and happier
if you avoid overheating in the first place this summer. If the temperatures
soar, take it easy. Try not to overexert yourself in the heat and stay
out of the direct sunlight. Try to spend at least part of the day in an
air-conditioned building. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.